PROTOCOL 18 on internal procedures for the implementation of Article 43

For the Community, the procedures to be followed for the implementation of Article 43 of the Agreement are set out in the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community.

For the EFTA States, the procedures are set out in the agreement on a Standing Committee of the EFTA States and will cover the following elements:

An EFTA State which intends to take measures in accordance with Article 43 of the Agreement shall in good time give notice thereof to the Standing Committee of the EFTA States.

However, in case of secrecy or urgency, notice shall be given to the other EFTA States and to the Standing Committee of the EFTA States at the latest by the date of entry into force of the measures.

The Standing Committee of the EFTA States shall examine the situation and deliver an opinion regarding the introduction of the measures. It shall keep the situation under review and may at any time make, by majority vote, recommendations regarding the possible amendment, suspension or abolition of the measures introduced or regarding any other measures to assist the EFTA State concerned to overcome its difficulties.